A scheme to spend £2m on better cycling and walking links in Cambridge has been approved despite claims that the programme is unfair on motorists.

The plan, which was approved yesterday by the city council, includes a shortcut between the A14 junction at Histon and Orchard Park, and lighting alongside the guided busway in the city.

£100,000 will also be spent on better traffic calming in Fen Road, £100,000 to replace shared-use paths either side of Long Road and £250,000 to improve cycling safety and pedestrian safety in Cherry Hinton High Street.

A scheme to spend £2m on better cycling and walking links in Cambridge has been approved despite claims that the programme is unfair on motorists.

The plan, which was approved yesterday by the city council, includes a shortcut between the A14 junction at Histon and Orchard Park, and lighting alongside the guided busway in the city.

£100,000 will also be spent on better traffic calming in Fen Road, £100,000 to replace shared-use paths either side of Long Road and £250,000 to improve cycling safety and pedestrian safety in Cherry Hinton High Street.

However cabinet members voiced their concerns over the plans. Councillor Steve Tierney said, “It’s important, but we can’t wish cars away. There are a lot of people who have to use cars and can’t stop.

“Contributions are supposed to help everybody, not just a select group, and I would like to have seen a bit more balance in the list.

In defence of the new spending plans, Councillor Martin Curtis said, “Good investment in cycling is not just pro cyclists, it’s pro motorists.

“There are a number of motorists who also use bicycles. There are also a number of people who would love to use cycles but don’t because they don’t feel it’s safe.

“The more you can invest in cycling, the more people will move to cycles and will reduce congestion.

The money will be used to pave the way for more ambitious plans in the future including a new cycling bridge linking Cambridge Leisure Park with the station area.